Representation by Alison Hollinshead
- Date submitted
- 18 November 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
As a Horley resident I strongly object to the proposed expansion of Gatwick. I am concerned on so many levels. To name just a few the expansion will increase the local area pollution and carbon emissions having a detrimental impact on health, noise levels with the increased thrust of the engines, the rise of traffic in the local area during the construction phase and thereafter, the destruction of wildlife and eco systems, it will devalue house prices in the local area making it a less attractive place to live. Rather than the airport industry adding to the significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions it should be looking to invest in greener alternatives focusing more on encouraging sustainable alternatives to air travel. I fear it is a pathway into a much bigger incremental plan that is likely to lead to further runways and terminals being added in subsequent phases. When reading through the detail of the Gatwick development proposal the information behind the headlines is not consistent. It is instead misleading and distorted. I believe it is a very slippery slope for local residents. I do not trust the financial return for the investors will only be limited to what is being proposed. In addition business travel since Covid has radically declined and it is unlikely to return to its previous demand and with the unpredictable hostile weather conditions in areas traditionally known as holiday destinations tourist travel will also be greatly affected and will reduce. These are just some of the reasons I object to planning permission being granted to expand the emergency runway and I hope my and everyone else’s objections are carefully considered. The rejection of these plans are without doubt in the best interests of the local community and environment.